On your birthday I sing your praises
Which might get to be a repeating story
If not for all your new accomplishments
Bringing ever greater feats than before.
It is truly remarkable how you are thriving
Teaching elementary school students
Getting their attention and respect and affection
Giving them the precious lifelong love of learning.
I don’t have the skills needed to do that.
I hear about you doubling up last Wednesday
Teaching two classes at once different lessons
And I am overwhelmed at the thought of it.
As a first year teacher maternity leave substitute
Anyone would expect you to be struggling.
Instead you get the highest praise from everyone
Students, parents, teachers, administration.
You have been selected with two colleagues
To present at a major teacher conference this June
In your first year already appreciated for what you know
Achieving recognition far in advance of your years.
I am so proud of you but there’s more.
In the coldest February since 1934
You are alone in our house taking care of it
Keeping everything together while we’re away.
Living completely on your own for the first time
Doing everything to keep your life going
Keeping up with your friends and family
While doing this job that would consume others.
For sure we’ll be happy to be back home in April
Enjoying your company in springtime
Marveling at the capable person you are
Happy to be part of your life.
